The following is policy advice in relation to breast cancer claims where the member/former member attributes the condition to use of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP).
The Repatriation Commission has endorsed a policy position which assists delegates with establishing a relevant connection between a member’s ADF service and their use of the oral contraceptive pill. Where the policy is applicable, there is no need to further investigate a causal link with service.
The policy recognises that due to their service environment and nature of their duties, female members may reasonably perceive that taking the OCP is necessary to maintain deployability and fitness for duty because it will enable them to have some control over their menstrual cycle.
Delegates are able to take into account situations where a female member reasonably perceives that due to their service environment and nature of their duties, taking the OCP is necessary to maintain deployability and fitness for duty. Examples include but are not necessarily limited to deployments, sea-going service and training exercises.
Relevant evidence which delegates may take into consideration include the member’s ADF medical documents, medical reports/opinions, statements provided by the member or any other relevant information. Delegates will need to consider the evidence or information upon which the reasonableness of the member's perception is based.
The policy is limited to claims for breast cancer. In order for liability to be accepted, the member must:
be diagnosed with breast cancer,
meet the relevant onset timeframes as stipulated in the Statements of Principles (SOPs), and
have had three years continuous use of the combined OCP during their ADF service.
Note: The SOPs specifically require use of the combined oral contraceptive, and not other forms of contraception which may be available such as implants or injections. The combined oral contraceptive pill means an oral contraceptive compound containing both oestrogen and progestogen.
For any queries regarding the application of this policy please contact the Liability & Service Eligibility Policy Section.